Black Knight Pub staff and patrons are mourning the loss of Bogus Zdyb, co-founder of the business, who died peacefully while surrounded by family on Dec. 11 at the age of 63.
“Bogus was a visionary who helped create the Black Knight Pub as a place where people can enjoy good food, drinks and entertainment,” stated a Black Knight Pub social media post. “He was always friendly and welcoming to everyone who walked through our doors. He will be greatly missed by his colleagues and friends at the pub.”
It said that Zdyb — remembered for his kindness, generosity and creativity — was a passionate artist and businessman.
Born in Poland, Zdyb came to Canada with his family in 1960 and settled in Sudbury, Ont. After completing high school, he graduated from the Ontario College of Art and moved to Baker Lake, Nunavut, where he served as an advisor to the Baker Lake Arts Centre. He later founded Zdyb Services, a business offering various services to the community.
In the 1990s, he relocated to Yellowknife and collaborated with partners to establish the Black Knight Pub in the city’s downtown in 1997. It soon became a popular spot for locals and tourists, known for its diverse menu, drink selection and live music.
Zdyb is survived by his daughter Donna, son Gordon (Danica), grandchildren Solaya, Talya, Koen, Jagger, and Jersey, and a large extended family and friends in Yellowknife, Sudbury, and around the globe. He was predeceased by his parents, Alexander and Krystyna.
A memorial service took place at the Black Knight Pub this past Saturday afternoon.